Estepona

To hear the lions' roar and the elephants' trumpet

Mammals, reptiles, birds and insects from all five continents await you at Estepona’s Selwo Adventure safari park. I’d strongly recommend wearing ‘sensible’ shoes, as even if you go for the four-wheel drive tour as opposed to the walking tour, there’s still a fair bit of walking involved. Look out for offers and deals for groups and don’t forget your camera.

To soak up the genteel atmosphere

Plaza de la Flores, right in the heart of the charismatic old town, is arguably the most charming spot for a spot of lunch in Estepona – but the best tables in the most popular cafés and restaurants go fast so get there early. After a long leisurely lunch nip into La Casa de la Cultura, one of the grand public, and immaculately-maintained, white-washed buildings in the square as there’s usually a free exhibition on.

To pick up some bargains

The Sunday market in the marina at the west end of the promenade is popular amongst locals and holidaymakers who are keen to bag themselves some bargains. Whether its fruit and veg, crafts, antiques, clothes or bric-a-brac, you can easily lose two hours browsing the countless stalls. Read more on my Shopping in Estepona page.

To sit on the dock of the bay

The fishing industry is alive and well in Estepona and nowhere more so than in the port to the west of the marina, where I love watching the local fishermen unload their catch onto the harbour from their small wooden boats as they’ve done for centuries. It’s somehow reassuringly timeless.

To work on your tan

The 2.6km of La Rada, the town’s most popular beach, is backed by a smart promenade with endless chiringuitos serving freshly-caught local fish. You can be back on your sunbed in seconds once you’ve finished sampling the to-die-for barbecued sardines.

To be spoilt for golfing choices

So you like golf? Well, you could stay for a week, playing a different course each day and you still wouldn’t get round all of them. Most of the locals tell me they prefer Estepona Golf, as it’s more mature and natural in terms of flora and fauna unlike some of the other courses which are more “manicured.”